About

The Washington State Search and Rescue Volunteer Advisory Council (SARVAC) serves as a statewide advisory organization dedicated to supporting, guiding, and strengthening Washington’s volunteer search and rescue community.

We provide resources such as recommended Best Practices/Guidelines that teams may adopt or adapt as appropriate. We engage directly with coordinators, unit leaders, and responders to understand their needs and help shape the future of SAR in the state.

Grounded in respect for local authority and the diverse expertise of the SAR community, our mission is to listen, advise, and assist so that volunteer responders are better equipped to serve the public safely and effectively.

We exist to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of Washington’s Search and Rescue community by:

• Facilitating communication and coordination among volunteer SAR organizations across the state;
• Supporting high-quality training, education, and professional development;
• Advancing collaboration with local, tribal, state, federal, and nonprofit partners;
• Promoting  best practices, including safety, in SAR operations;
• Providing advocacy and representation for volunteer responders; and
• Strengthening the capacity of SAR organizations to serve the public during emergencies, missing person incidents, and disasters.

We want to hear from you. Please contact us anytime you have a need, a question or a concern. You can reach out to our President at [email protected]

Mission Statement

The mission of the Washington State Search and Rescue Volunteer Advisory Council (SARVAC) is to strengthen, support, and advocate for Washington’s Search and Rescue volunteers.

We will do this by promoting statewide coordination, enhancing training and operational readiness, advancing effective partnerships, and ensuring that volunteer responders have the resources and representation needed to safely and successfully serve the people of Washington.

Our vision: A search and rescue community that is well-trained, well-equipped and operationally united working together to bring missing people back to their families.